White Powder Scare Prompts Evacuation of Federal Plaza in Lower Manhattan
A suspicious package containing an unknown white powder led to the evacuation of the building at 26 Federal Plaza in Lower Manhattan on Thursday afternoon. Authorities swiftly responded to the incident, initiating a comprehensive investigation to determine the nature of the substance and ensure public safety.
Immediate Response and Initial Findings
The New York City Fire Department (FDNY) received a call shortly before 4 p.m. reporting the discovery of the powder in the mailroom on the ninth floor. The building houses offices of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the New York City field office of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), among other federal agencies. First responders and hazmat units arrived on the scene within four minutes, according to officials.
“Today’s event was under control almost immediately, without incident,” stated Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Kaz Daughtry. Investigators discovered a total of five letters containing the powder, which will be sent to FBI headquarters in Quantico, Virginia, for analysis. At least two individuals were reportedly exposed to the substance, and authorities are awaiting test results.
FBI Investigation and Safety Protocols
The FBI’s Weapons of Mass Destruction and Hazard Evidence response teams were immediately deployed to the location. Christopher Raia, assistant director of the FBI’s New York City field office, confirmed that the building was evacuated as a standard safety precaution. “Right now, no threat remains to any employees or the public at this time,” Raia stated.
DHS officials indicated that some individuals were sheltering in place as part of established safety protocols. Authorities are currently advising the public to avoid the area while the investigation continues.
Ongoing Concerns Regarding Conditions at 26 Federal Plaza
The incident at 26 Federal Plaza occurs amidst ongoing debate and scrutiny regarding the treatment of individuals processed at the facility. The building has been the site of numerous detainments by ICE agents following immigration hearings and has also been the focus of protests alleging deplorable conditions for those held within its walls.
DHS maintains that the building is not a detention center, but rather a processing center where individuals are briefly held before being transferred to ICE detention facilities. Tricia McLaughlin, DHS Assistant Secretary, asserted in a recent statement that all detainees are provided with meals, medical care, and opportunities to communicate with family and legal counsel. She added that ICE is actively working to secure adequate detention space while preventing overcrowding.
Legal Challenges and Court Orders
However, these claims are being challenged in court. On Tuesday, U.S. District Judge Lewis Kaplan issued a temporary restraining order that could block the Trump administration from using the building to hold immigrants facing deportation. The order stipulates that the administration must first reduce the number of detainees and improve conditions at the site, including providing essential items like sleeping mats and hygiene products.
During a hearing earlier this week, a government lawyer conceded that detainees at the facility lacked access to certain basic services, such as sleeping mats, in-person legal visits, and adequate meals.
The investigation into the white powder incident remains ongoing, adding another layer of complexity to the already contentious situation surrounding 26 Federal Plaza.
